You may understand that converting your home to solar energy can reduce the amount of energy you need from the grid, which will save you tons of cash. There are a lot of great reasons on why you should use solar panels, from various government incentives to being eco-friendly. Read this article for tips on using solar panels and other green alternatives.
A solar water heating system can help lower energy costs. Solar water heaters tap into the abundant and free energy offered by the sun. Water heated by other methods, like natural gas, propane, or electricity, is not an efficient method. Some of these upgrades, while more expensive up-front, may qualify for green energy tax deductions.
Save Energy
Shading windows from sunlight whelps to save energy. Another option is installing darkening shades. Less heat will be allowed in, and your summer air conditioner costs will be greatly reduced with just these two simply steps This means that you will save energy as well as money.
During the heat of summer, wear natural-fiber fabrics instead of turning on the air conditioner. Fabrics, such as cotton, draw the moisture further from your skin and let it stay cooler. You may feel warmer when you wear warm-colored clothing, so wear light-colored clothing in order to use the air conditioner less.
Take advantage of government grants if you plan to invest in renewable energy sources. Ask at your local municipality office to research what types of programs might be available to you. You could qualify for a no-cost wind or solar installation, or at the very least, receive a tax deduction.
Think about buying solar water heaters for heating your water. The heater uses solar energy to heat water before sending it to your home. This can be useful if your home isn’t located in an area with cold temperatures. Even though solar water heaters are useful, it is still necessary to have a normal water heater for periods of extended cloudy weather or unusually high hot water use.
Instead of using the dryer, dry your laundry outdoors when weather permits. The sun gives your clothes a great smell. It is a fresher smell than you would get from the dryer. You can also save money on your energy bills.
If you aren’t using something, turn it off. When you leave a room, switch off the lights, computer or T.V. Try using a power strip so you can turn off all of your electronics at once, instead of letting power be wasted in standby mode.
If you would like to reduce the cost of your hot water, use solar energy. Consider a solar water heater. There are systems available that circulate the heat both directly and indirectly. Indirect is the best choice if you have pipes which often freeze in the winter.
The batteries should be located near the solar energy cells when the system is being set up. Doing so removes the chance of lost energy. You also will not have to worry about the cells being shaded by a cable and not producing as much energy as they could.
Take the time to properly maintain your refrigerator. Because refrigerators use so much energy, it really pays to keep them working as efficiently as possible. Make sure you clean out any dust from around heating coils. In addition to that, make the seal near the door clean and tight.
One of the best ways to go green and cut energy costs is by dressing more warmly. 2 degrees of warmth is added by wearing a light sweater, and 4 degrees with a heavy one. The more layers you wear at home, the less energy you will need to use heating your house.
Replace your traditional holiday lights with strings of LED’s. The use of LED lights reduces the use of electricity according to research. A study by the Department of Energy needs everyone to make this change. That is enough electricity to power 200 thousand homes for a whole year. At a minimum, you will save a little money on your energy bill.
Heat your home with biofuels. This type of fuel is made of oils, wood and vegetable or animal fats. You can hire a professional to adjust your propane furnace to be capable of using any type of fuel you desire. Most furnaces use between 20 to 99% bio-diesel fuels. Always speak with a professional who will guide you in how to properly use this type of fuel.
Bamboo Products
Try bamboo products when buying wood items. Bamboo is a green, grass product, but it is much stronger than most of the commercial wood types. Since bamboo grows quite fast it is one of the best renewable choices you can make. You can find a variety of bamboo products, from floors to furniture to cutting boards for the kitchen. This saves energy, as bamboo is easy to produce and can be recycled.
Solar panels benefit home owners by reducing energy costs, among other things. They can by bought and installed fairly easily, and typically last a number of years. Making use of green energy in your home lets you be more environmentally friendly while updating your home.